Anglican Orthodox Church
Worldwide Communion
Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity
Sunday Report
Today we celebrated the Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity Sunday.
On Point
Someone asked, where do the quotes come from? The answer is from the people who uttered them. But, how did you find them? Oh, that. Some from Bishop Jerry, many from Rev Bryan Dabney, a few from other places, some from Rev Geordie Menzies-Grierson, but overall mostly from Bryan. He always has some great ones to share. On to the On Point quotes –
Guess What Happened
“[T]he opinion which gives to the judges the right to decide what laws are constitutional and what not, not only for themselves, in their, own sphere of action, but for the Legislature and Executive also in their spheres, would make the Judiciary a despotic branch.
Thomas Jefferson
letter to Abigail Adams, 1804
Government
The essence of government is power; and power, lodged as it must be in human hands, will ever be liable to abuse.
James Madison
speech in the Virginia constitutional convention, 1829
Of all the dispositions and habits which lead to political prosperity, Religion and morality are indispensible supports. In vain would that man claim the tribute of Patriotism who should labor to subvert these great Pillars of human happiness — these firmest props of the duties of men and citizens. … Let it simply be asked where is the security for property, for reputation, for life, if the sense of religious obligation desert the oaths…
President George Washington
1796
There is not a more important and fundamental principle in legislation, than that the ways and means ought always to face the public engagements; that our appropriations should ever go hand in hand with our promises. To say that the United States should be answerable for twenty-five millions of dollars without knowing whether the ways and means can be provided, and without knowing whether those who are to succeed us will think with us on the subject, would be rash and unjustifiable.
James Madison
Speech in Congress, 1790
For I know that my redeemer liveth…
Job 19:25
I will sing unto the LORD, because he hath dealt bountifully with me.
Psalm 13:6
Trust ye in the LORD for ever: for in the LORD JEHOVAH is everlasting strength.
Isaiah 26:4
The harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few. Pray ye therefore the Lord of the harvest, that he will send forth labourers into his harvest.
St. Matthew 9:37-38
Take heed lest any man deceive you: for many shall come in my name, saying, I am Christ; and shall deceive many.
St. Mark 13:5-6
For ye are bought with a price: therefore glorify God in your body, and in your spirit, which are God’s.
I Corinthians 6:20
But shun profane and vain babblings: for they will increase unto more ungodliness.
II St. Timothy 2:16
This present world is an evil world. It is so full of sins, snares, and sorrows. We travel a dangerous road full of stumbling blocks, precipices, and false guides… Being told before that there will be seducers, tempters, persecutors, and many bad examples, let us stand upon our guard.
Matthew Henry
17th and 18th century English pastor and author
I fear much for many professing Christians. I see no sign of fighting in them, much less of victory. They never strike on stroke on the side of Christ. They are at peace with his enemies. They have no quarrel with sin. I warn you, this is not Christianity. This is not the way to heaven.
JC Ryle
19th century Anglican bishop and author
Holiness, p. 297
The same God who directs the earth in its orbit, who feeds the burning furnace of the sun, and trims the lamps of heaven, has promised to supply thee with daily strengths.
Charles H. Spurgeon
19th century English pastor and author
Morning and Evening, p. 714
Apparently, government service seems to attract intelligent men who can’t tell the difference between right and wrong, or what is wise and what is stupid. To think that the greatest, richest, most inventive and productive nation in human history could be so suicidally mismanaged by its elected political leaders boggles the mind.
Dr. Samuel Blumenfel
20th and 21st century American political commentator
Are Our Politicians Stupid or Evil
When you sit down to negotiate on what you already have, you lose.
Marie J. Parente
21st century member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives
The whole aim of practical politics is to keep the populace alarmed (and hence clamorous to be led to safety) by menacing it with an endless series of hobgoblins, all of them imaginary.
HL Mencken
20th century American writer

Propers
Each Sunday there are Propers: special prayers and readings from the Bible. There is a Collect for the Day; that is a single thought prayer, most written either before the re-founding of the Church of England in the 1540s or written by Bishop Thomas Cranmer, the first Archbishop of Canterbury after the re-founding.
The Collect for the Day is to be read on Sunday and during Morning and Evening Prayer until the next Sunday. The Epistle is normally a reading from one of the various Epistles, or letters, in the New Testament. The Gospel is a reading from one of the Holy Gospels, Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The Collect is said by the minister as a prayer, the Epistle can be read by either a designated reader (as we do in our church) or by one of the ministers and the Holy Gospel, which during the service in our church is read by an ordained minister.
The propers are the same each year, except if a Red Letter Feast, that is one with propers in the prayerbook, falls on a Sunday, then those propers are to be read instead, except in a White Season, where it is put off. Red Letter Feasts, so called because in the Altar Prayerbooks the titles are in red, are special days. Most of the Red Letter Feasts are dedicated to early saints instrumental in the development of the church, others to special events. Some days are particularly special and the Collect for that day is to be used for an octave (eight days) or an entire season, like Advent or Lent.
The Propers for today are found on Page 209-210, with the Collect first:
The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity.
The Collect.
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LMIGHTYand everlasting God, give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that which thou dost command; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
The Epistle came from Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, the Fifth Chapter beginning at the Sixteenth Verse. Paul tells us that Heaven and Earth are in conflict in our lives, “For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would.” If we are led of the Spirit, we are not under the law. If we are subject to the law, which we are bound to break due to our own inability to be ultimately good, we are also bound to the pit. But if we are with Christ, we are forgiven of our sins, providing we are truly repentant. We will enjoy “the fruit of the Spirit … love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.”
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say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh. For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other: so that ye cannot do the things that ye would. But if ye be led of the Spirit, ye are not under the law. Now the works of the flesh are manifest, which are these; Adultery, fornication, uncleanness, lasciviousness, idolatry, witchcraft, hatred, variance, emulations, wrath, strife, seditions, heresies, envyings, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and such like: of the which I tell you before, as I have also told you in time past, that they which do such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, meekness, temperance: against such there is no law. And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
Today’s Holy Gospel started in the Seventeenth Chapter of the Gospel according to St. Luke, beginning at the Eleventh Verse. Jesus comes upon ten lepers who appeal to Him, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” He does and tells them, “Go shew yourselves unto the priests.” As they left him, their leprosy disappeared. One of the ten, “when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan[1].” Jesus marveled at the nine who turned not saying, “Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.” Once again a Samaritan, the “least” among the Jews was the only one to recognize and offer thanks to the Power of God. Do we recognize the power of God in our lives and do we thank Him for the good He does us?
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nd it came to pass, as Jesus went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: and they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
Bishop Ogles’ Sermon
We are oft fortunate to get copies of Bishop Jerry’s sermon notes. Today is one of those Sundays. Today’s sermon starts off with the collect, and like always, it will give you a lot to consider in your heart.
Sermon Notes
Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity
Saint Andrew’s
Anglican Orthodox Church
6 September 2015, Anno Domini
The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity.
The Collect.
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LMIGHTYand everlasting God, give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that which thou dost command; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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nd it came to pass, as Jesus went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: and they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. (Luke 17:11-19)
Gratitude
The casual (to us) beginning of this Gospel text – “And it came to pass….” – is not casual at all. In fact, nothing in Scripture is casual. It was determined from ages past to “come to pass” for it was an event in the foreordained ministry of our Lord. Jesus is on His final journey of His earthly mission to Jerusalem to suffer and die for remission of our sins. His journey includes the gentile region of Samaria as well as the Jewish sector of Galilee. This should comfort us in understanding that His ministry was to all people of faith, and not limited merely to a certain race of people.
Our text today involves, again, the healing of lepers. Leprosy might be compared to sin in several particulars: 1) sin is insidious in its onslaught. It is not usually obvious at what point an innocent child comes to age of reckoning and becomes an outright sinner – but the sin will grow to the point that it is obvious to all that the former child willfully sins. The same is true of leprosy. No one notices the early onslaught of leprosy – even the victim. But with time, spots and blemishes appear that grow more all-invasive and severe until the body appendages begin to rot and deteriorate. 2) leprosy, like sin, has an increasingly reprehensible odor associated with its progress. At first, one might be able to cover the odor with ointments and perfumes, but even these cannot stench the growing unpleasant odor that the disease emits.3) Leprosy, like sin, separates us from our loved ones. A leper is disposed to live apart from all others of society and to shout, “Unclean!” to all who might approach him. Sin separates us from God. 4) Leprosy is debilitating – so is sin. Many of the dreams and aspirations of the leper are interdicted by the disease. The same is true of the growing depravity of sin. 5) Leprosy finally kills its victim – so does sin result in spiritual death of its victim. These are just a few of the parallels that can be drawn between leprosy and sin.
Jesus is the Great Physician – not only in healing the body, but also the soul. As we look at this text today, let us consider the condition of our own hearts in comparison with those of the lepers described.
Jesus is approaching a village at some point on his journey.
He is met by ten lepers outside the village – lepers were not allowed to mingle with the village people. They could not approach near to Jesus, but remained afar off. Sinners, too, cannot come near to Christ until they do so with penitent heart. Sinners are separated from God by their sin.
They believed that Jesus could help them though they could not fully understand the manner of healing. They believed strongly enough that they, in unison, lifted up their voices and cried, “Master have mercy on us.” IT is not necessary to beg for details of mercy. The mercy of Christ will always suffice for our healing.
Prayer will always get the attention of the Lord. Jesus had not yet seen the men until they called upon His name. “And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests.”Another point illustrated here is the fact that distance is not an impediment to healing where the Lord is concerned.
Why show themselves to the priests? It was not to complete any healing, for they were healed as they went away – it was to grant them entrance into polite society again. When we come to Christ, we are admitted to the society of other believers – we are accounted righteous though our righteousness is that IMPUTED righteousness of Christy and not our own.
“And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed.” It surely MUST come to pass if Jesus issues the decree!
When we come to Christ, believing in faith, our faith must result in acting upon that faith. Obedience to Christ requires our immediate response. Immediately the lepers departed to see the priests. When we have repented of our sins and believed, we must walk in a different direction, and with a different purpose, than our previous walks.
“15 And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God.” The grant of great expectations requires a great response. One of the ten, realizing that his leprosy was gone, could continue no further without glorifying the Great Benefactor who had healed him. He was not ashamed to lift his voice and loudly glorify God. In fact, I do not believe he could resist doing so. How silent do we remain after Jesus has healed us of our great sins? Should we not bear witness, far and wide, of our healing by revealing that Great Physician that healed us to other lepers?
It is implied nine were Jewish, and clearly stated this one was a Samaritan who was healed. He could not resist the power of gratitude to fall at the feet of Jesus and thank him for so great a favor. “And fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan.” He was the very one least expected to come near to Christ – he was a Samaritan! But he was now cleansed and, as we must do also, he came near to Christ after his healing. After our forgiveness of sins, we, too, must draw near by faith to Christ and ever after remain so.
In our sins, we are all strangers to God, but once we are cleansed, we delight in His company. “And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? 18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger.” Today in church, there are perhaps one in ten who are gracious and loving of Christ to kneel (in their hearts) at his feet and than Him for His many mercies to them. Where are the nine? They are no longer in fellowship with Christ. They have disappeared!
Only this stranger – this Samaritan – was made whole and healed to the fullest. The other nine had their leprosy healed, indeed; but they again drifted away and were separated from the most important One with whom they could have associated themselves. Many make public professions of faith and do the same thing. “And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.” The faith (and gratitude) of the Samaritan had made him whole to the fullest extent. Not only had his leprosy been healed, but, more importantly, his soul!
Everyone present in the worship service today has that opportunity to express their full faith and gratitude to Christ – through their public testimony, through their changed lives, and through their service to Him. Have you done so?
Sermon – Reverend Jack Arnold – Time and Action
Church of the Faithful Centurion – Descanso, California
Today’s sermon tied the Collect, Epistle and Gospel together and is partly contained in the forewords above.
Today we talk consider The Law and how it failed to solve the problems of the people it was designed to help and think about how getting around technicalities is different that doing what is right.
Consider the words of the Collect, “…give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that which thou dost command …”
The Collects often are repetitive, in that we ask the same thing, week after week in differing ways. Why is that? Sadly, we have the same needs and the same failings week after week. We are WEAK, we need God’s STRENGTH. Today, we ask Him to help us, through the Holy Ghost, to increase our faith, to help us love what He wants us to do, to make His Wishes our wishes. To make us want to follow Him that we might gain the prize which He has promised us. That prize has multiple aspects, first and foremost eternal life which begins when we accept it, not when we die. Second, as a benefit of that eternal life, we live our lives here in far greater happiness than we would otherwise. We have peace of mind, as well as a better physical life. If we can but just put our hearts in His Heart. We will improve in all aspects of our life if we truly do our best to follow Him. And if we can also remember the benefits of the prize of following Him, it would be easier for us to follow the path, maybe not much easier, but easier enough to keep our eyes on the prize. We often forget about the Holy Ghost, that Third God Guy. Without Him in our hearts, we are lost. He is a critical part of our journey towards heaven. He will help guide us along the narrow uphill trail to heaven. With Him, we, like John Newton, are found. We will have that vision He gives to us in our lives and we will be able to see the way God wants us to travel.
That brings us right in to Paul’s Letter to the Galatians, and us! We need to walk in God’s Word and in His Spirit. We need to put aside the things of this world which are not in accord with the Way of God. The things that are of this world are contrary to how God would have us act, and unbecoming of our position as sons and daughters of Him. If we are of God, then we will act of God, then only will we be of God.
What is important is not what you were born to, for we were all born to death. A king is born, a king dies. We are born into this world, our body will die in this world. Yet through the grace of the King, we live on. There is much conflict in us, look at all those “fun” things Paul lists in the Epistle. Those “fun” things do not bring happiness, they really just bring us closer to death. We all struggle with fun and happiness, two words that often do not mean the same thing. It is simlar to the need and want issue, two other words that get easily mixed up.
Yet, God has the answer for us. He sent His Son to bring it to us. Who will listen?
The only people who listen are those who are in need, hurt, pain and despair. Often it is because they or one of their loved ones are ill or injured, perhaps near death. Perhaps they are unemployed or undergoing some family upheaval. Their situation is less than perfect. They need help and they know it. In their own mind, they are the Samaritans of this world. It was no accident that Jesus oft cast Samaritans as the stars of his parables and stories. It is also no accident that Jesus parables and stories center on actions, not words, thoughts and meditations. Actions are who you are. Without action, there is nothing. The key driving principle behind his parables are actions for Him, are those of goodness, not of evil. “Those who believe on me keep my commandments.” Actions!
Yet, those who turn to God in “need” are no different than each of us. To quote Paul, “None are perfect, all fall short.” We, each and every one of us, need God’s help. Perhaps some need it more, none need it less.
When Luke tells us of Jesus and the ten lepers whom He heals and only one expresses thanks, do you think he is only telling of lepers?
In a sense are we not all lepers, outcasts with unhealable conditions? We are outcasts of this world so to speak, we only have God and our friends in Christ to help us. The world cannot help us, but those in Christ, and God can. We have an incurable condition of sin, but with God’s help, it can be healed, though we cannot heal it on our own. We cannot be healed by this world, yet there is One who can heal us and will if only we appeal to Him, “Jesus, Master, have mercy on us.” We pray to God in His Name every day, He listens every day.
Through our Lord, God is there for each of us if we will accept His help. When He gives that help, how do we react? Frankly most of us just think it our due. We oft fail to give thanks for all that He gives us.
Even if we get an answer we don’t expect, do we thank Him? What if we get an answer do we thank Him?
Like the lepers only one in ten will show thanks for the mercy and help given them. Rarely do people give thanks for large efforts done to help them. We must endeavor to be grateful for Him and for all of those who strive hard to help us out I our time s of need. In the case of the lepers, it was the Samaritan[2], showing that fancy dress and rules are not as important as doing what is right and being grateful for what we are given.
Are you part of that 10 percent?
Remember, it is Please and Thank You that are the magic words, not Please and I don’t have time for you.
Heaven is at the end of an uphill trail. The easy downhill trail does not lead to the summit.
The time is now, not tomorrow. The time has come, indeed. How will you ACT?
It is by our actions we are known.
Be of God – Live of God – Act of God
Roy Morales-Kuhn, Bishop and Pastor – St. Paul’s Anglican Church – Anglican Orthodox Church
Bishop Roy is pastor of the biggest AOC parish West of the Mississippi and is in charge of the Diocese of the Epiphany.
Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity
Thy faith hath made thee whole
6 September 2015, Anno Domini
Galatians 5:16-24 • Luke 17:11-19
The Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity.
The Collect.
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LMIGHTYand everlasting God, give unto us the increase of faith, hope, and charity; and, that we may obtain that which thou dost promise, make us to love that which thou dost command; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
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nd it came to pass, as Jesus went to Jerusalem, that he passed through the midst of Samaria and Galilee. And as he entered into a certain village, there met him ten men that were lepers, which stood afar off: and they lifted up their voices, and said, Jesus, Master, have mercy on us. And when he saw them, he said unto them, Go shew yourselves unto the priests. And it came to pass, that, as they went, they were cleansed. And one of them, when he saw that he was healed, turned back, and with a loud voice glorified God, and fell down on his face at his feet, giving him thanks: and he was a Samaritan. And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine? There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger. And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole. (Luke 17:11-19)
What shall we then say? Our Gospel reading is so pertinent to the prevailing attitude of the day.
“Give me stuff, give me gifts, give me or in the vernacular ‘gimme gimme, gimme’.
We read about ten very unfortunate men. These fellows were traveling together because according to custom they were not allowed to come into any village or city, because they were lepers. Without going into great detail, leprosy first disfigures the person who is afflicted and then slowly takes their life. This process can last several years. It is a slow and painful death. At the time there was no cure for it, so anyone who was discovered to have it, had to leave everyone and their village and try to make it on their own. So these outcast banded together for safety and to survive, even for a while.
There are several lessons I would like you to see here in this story of the ten lepers.
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These lepers knew Jesus could heal them. They called out to him, “Master, have mercy on us” . Why did they know this ? Did Jesus reputation precede him? Most likely. The ten had most likely heard that Jesus healed the sick, and they were sick. They knew to go as Jesus told them and they were healed on the way to be certified clean by the priest.
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Only one in ten thanked God. Those aren’t very good odds. This is the way of the world. Although ten were healed only one came back to thank him who healed them. Do we sometimes not thank God for things he has done for us? Did he not provide his Son as a once and for all sacrifice for our sins? Did Jesus die for our sins? Let us not be as the nine and turn our backs upon our very savior, we must turn and give thanks for the great gift of salvation from God.
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The one leper knew that Jesus was God. Notice how he reacts to being healed. He turns back and in a loud voice glorifies God. Then he falls at Jesus feet and gives thanks. Note what Luke indicates, this one grateful healed leper was a Samaritan. A sworn enemy of the Jews, an outcast, one who was already considered unclean because he was a half-breed. Half Hebrew and half pagan. And yet this was the one who returned to Jesus, proclaiming him God by glorifying God. He, the rejected, knew he was healed by the healing word of the Master, came back to him to praise him and thank him and worship him.
…and he was a Samaritan.
17 And Jesus answering said, Were there not ten cleansed? but where are the nine?
18 There are not found that returned to give glory to God, save this stranger
19 And he said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole.
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We are all strangers at one time in our life. Before one comes to the Lord seeking salvation, they are in all respects, a stranger. Because we are estranged from God. Our sin keeps us from being part of the Kingdom. Now notice how this is rectified when Jesus becomes our Savior. “He said unto him, Arise, go thy way: thy faith hath made thee whole”.
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When we step away from the world and seek His way, we will be saved by our faith. Our faith will make us whole.
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So listener, if you do not know the Lord Jesus as your savior, you must seek him. Call out to him, ask him to save you from your sins. You ask Jesus to save you, “….your faith will make you whole”. Jesus will take you into his Kingdom, where you will live for ever in His peace.
Let us pray:
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SAVIOR of the world, who by thy Cross and precious Blood hast redeemed us; Save us, and help us, we humbly beseech thee, O Lord.
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HE Almighty Lord, who is a most strong tower to all those who put their trust in him, to whom all things in heaven, in earth, and under the earth, do bow and obey; Be now and evermore thy defence; and make thee know and feel, that there is none other Name under heaven given to man, in whom, and through whom, thou mayest receive health and salvation, but only the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.
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NTO God’s gracious mercy and protection we commit thee. The Lord bless thee, and keep thee. The Lord make his face to shine upon thee, and be gracious unto thee. The Lord lift up his countenance upon thee, and give thee peace, both now and evermore. Amen.
✟
Rev Bryan Dabney of Saint John’s Sunday Sermon
We are fortunate to have Bryan’s Sunday Sermon. If you want people to come to The Truth, you have to speak the truth, expouse the truth and live the truth. This is really a good piece and I commend it to your careful reading.
Fourteenth Sunday after Trinity
The prophet Jeremiah says in Chapter Seven:
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ehold, ye trust in lying words, that cannot profit.
Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense unto Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not;
10 And come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations?
11 Is this house, which is called by my name, become a den of robbers in your eyes? Behold, even I have seen it, saith the Lord.
12 But go ye now unto my place which was in Shiloh, where I set my name at the first, and see what I did to it for the wickedness of my people Israel.
Jeremiah chided the people of Jerusalem and Judah with a question: Will ye steal, murder, and commit adultery, and swear falsely, and burn incense to Baal, and walk after other gods whom ye know not; and come and stand before me in this house, which is called by my name, and say, We are delivered to do all these abominations (7:9)? To a godly person, the logical answer would be NO. Unfortunately, for both the kingdoms of Israel and Judah the answer was an unqualified YES. We should also understand that those behaviors which were set forth by the prophet are just as much present in our time as they were in the world of ancient Israel. If one makes but a cursory review of what passes for news, one will find those behaviors being exercised with depressing regularity. While we could spend quite a bit of time on those sins mentioned by the prophet, my focus in this message will be confined to the sin of walking after other gods, or idolatry.
In ancient times, polytheism was by far the most popular form of religion. While Noah and his sons held a belief in the one true and living God; nevertheless, after several generations, the monotheism of Noah had degenerated into the polytheistic idolatry of Nimrod and his descendants. One may ask, “Why was such the case?” Because the scriptures tell us that the imagination of man’s heart is evil from his youth (Genesis 8:21b). Man is a fallen creature possessing the spiritual trait of original sin. And every person knows the difference between good and evil (Genesis 2:17). Therefore, all sin is a conscious choice made by men to do evil on account of that trait (Romans 7:7-24). In the Book of Exodus, God set forth in the first two commandments that he is the only God, and that no graven images of any kind were to be made of him and used in his worship (20:1-6).
The other peoples of the earth worshiped idols and images which were the work of their hands (Isaiah 44:8-17). St. Paul warned the Corinthian church in his first epistle about the dark forces behind idol worship when he noted that the things which the Gentiles sacrifice, they sacrifice unto devils, and not to God… (10:20a). He also warned the church in Rome concerning the same when he wrote, Because that, when they knew God, they glorified him not as God, neither were thankful; but became vain in their imaginations, and their foolish heart was darkened. Professing themselves to be wise, they became fools, and changed the glory of the incorruptible God into an image made like to corruptible man, and to birds, and fourfooted beasts, and creeping things (Romans 1:21-23). St. John warned his readers in his first epistle to, keep yourselves from idols (5:21), and for some the first three centuries following its birth, the church rejected the use of idols and images within the body of Christ. Unfortunately, as the fifth century dawned, a distinct change was sweeping over Christendom. As Dr. Jesse Hurlbut explained, “… the triumph of Christianity resulted in… [an] alliance of the state and the church… The ceasing of persecution was a blessing, but the establishment of Christianity as the state religion became a curse.”
Dr. Hurlbut went on to describe how the increase in church membership, which came about because of its official approval by the Emperor Constantine, had opened the way for, “…both the good and the bad, sincere seekers after God and hypocritical seekers after gain…Ambitious, worldly, and unscrupulous men sought office in the church for social and political influence. The moral tone of Christianity in power was far below that which had marked the same people under persecution.”
With the influx of the unconverted pagan masses, idolatry was soon to follow. Dr. Hurlbut observed that, “The services of worship increased in splendor, but were less spiritual… The forms and ceremonies of paganism gradually crept into the worship. Some old heathen feasts became church festivals with a change of name and of worship. About 405 AD images of saints and martyrs began to appear in churches, adored, and worshiped. The adoration of the Virgin Mary was substituted for the worship of Venus and Diana…”
It was not until the Reformation in the 16th century the tide of idolatry was briefly stemmed. The new denominations which had formed around the teachings of men such as Martin Luther, John Calvin and Thomas Cranmer rejected the use of images and icons as part of their worship of the Godhead. But alas, such was not the end of the matter. The faithfulness to Scripture which had birthed those churches was not maintained, and by the late 20th century it was not uncommon to find within their sanctuaries statuary, images and even icons.
Others took another course by creating for themselves a whole new set of idols such as church leaders from across the ages; new bible versions; adopting a more allegorical approach to understanding Scripture; and embracing the anti- biblical notion of political correctness in church doctrine and worship despite the expressed prohibitions against such teachings and practices as found within the Bible.
But lest you think that idolatry in our world is confined only to a church building, think again. Today, we are virtually inundated with every form of depravity and licentiousness under the rubric of entertainment. If you have tv, you can witness such by simply selecting any channel you wish to view. Everything, from commercials to movies; from sitcoms to dramas, has been written to include behaviors and products that encourage the viewer’s appetite for lustful living. It is therefore not surprising to find people worshiping sports teams and sports figures; politicians; their spouses; their children; their possessions, and especially their money. Our Lord Jesus Christ said that, No man can serve two masters… you cannot serve God and mammon (St. Matthew 6:24), but modern mass man is not reading Scripture. If he attends one of the so-called “mainline” churches he will likely not hear any meaningful exposition of it. And if he attends an evangelical church, all the good preaching in the world will not matter if he does not take to heart what he has heard and then live in accordance with the same.
Idolatry is the Devil’s answer to what the unregenerate desire in a deity. It is an ersatz god which Satan will one day replace with himself. In his way of thinking— which he impresses upon the minds of the unregenerate— “Why have a God that cannot be seen when you can have one of your own making and quite visible (Exodus 32:1-4; Daniel 11:31; St. Matthew 24:15; Revelation 13:14, 15)? Why bother with the King James Bible and its clear language that expresses God’s commands when you can adopt one of my versions which will better suit your particular point of view (I St. Peter 1:15-21)? Why have a set of laws that are so confining and judgmental when you can follow your own path and set your own course (Romans 3:10-12; St. Jude 11)? Why have a Saviour who is God’s only begotten Son when you can be your own saviour and decision-maker (St. John 3:16-18)?
Why have an eschatology that calls for the resurrection of the righteous, and the translation of the saints who will become the exclusive dwellers of God’s coming kingdom when you can have all people of all religions equally sharing in a future paradise (I Corinthians 15:20-58; I Thessalonians 4:13-18; Revelation 20:4- 6)? Why have a theology which speaks of the end of this present world system when you can simply have a change from one age to another with little or no fuss (II St. Peter 3:1-13)?
Plainly, those who walk after other gods are acting in contradistinction to the expressed commands of a righteous and holy God as found in his word written. And it should be clearly understood that those who do such are in danger of everlasting damnation. God expects everyone to follow his word for their eternal good. He sent his only begotten Son into the world to serve as a propitiation for sin so that all who believe on him shall not perish but have everlasting life. He commands us to love and serve him, seeking his will for us on a daily basis. So it stands to reason that if one places any person or any thing ahead of the Godhead then one has committed the sin of idolatry. The First and Second Commandments call on the faithful to hold to the Godhead against all other so-called deities. Therefore, let us live in obedience to the expressed will of God and avoid every form and appearance of evil by rejecting idolatry in all its forms, giving only to our one true and living God all the glory, laud and honor he rightly deserves.
Let us pray,
O |
gracious Father, we ask for your protection as we wrestle with the forces of darkness that have been arrayed against us by our adversary the devil; and that in all our efforts to stand for the faith, give us courage to reach into the fire and pull as many as we can from the enemy’s grasp; for this we ask in the name of him whose mighty hand holds us so that we are kept from falling, even Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen.
Have a blessed week, Bryan+
After Church Hospitality
We would like some pictures of your after service gatherings. Come on! Help out!
People in our Prayers – http://faithfulcenturionprayerteam.blogspot.com/
Why? Prayer is an extremely important activity.
It is not that God knows not our needs, for He surely does. Yet, Jesus commanded us to ask God for those same needs. In addition to the obvious of asking God for help, offering thanksgiving and the like, prayer helps us focus our thoughts on how we might do God’s work.
The Prayer Team of the Anglican Orthodox Church was established to help our members and fellow Christians pray for those in need and to give thanks as well for the blessings we have been granted.
Who can be on the list? Do I have to be a member of the Anglican Orthodox Church to be prayed for?
No! The only qualification to be on the list is that you want our prayer team to pray for you. We are Christians and are happy to pray for you, no matter who you are. If you want help from God, you are our kind of people.
What is the commitment from the prayer team?
Each member of the team will pray for the desired outcome at last once per day.
How do I get myself or someone else on the prayer list?
You can email one of the prayer team leaders: Jack – jack@faithfulcenturion.org or Dru – dru@ faithfulcenturion.org, or call the office at (619) 659-3608 or fill out a prayer card at your church.
What should I ask for?
Depends on what you want. Some people merely want God to be asked to heal their ills and be mentioned by their first name, others want a specific outcome and / or have more of their personal information known to the team. Ask for what you want. It is your desire and need for prayer the team is attempting to meet. For typical examples, see the list below.
Updating the Team
If you are on our prayer list, or if you have submitted a person that you have asked us to pray for, please update one of the team members or Hap in person, by telephone or email. It helps to be able to pray specifically for these individuals including their specific needs; plus if they get better, it is nice to give thanks!
Please note that on the yellow (maybe green or orange if you get an old one) cards at church, you can ask that those to be prayed for have their names disseminated to the prayer team. Those names will be said in church and appear here. Or, you can ask that their names and purpose be kept confidential, then only Hap will know to pray for them.
Prayer List Notice – If you have someone on the prayer list and their needs have changed, please let us know. We’d like to update our prayers to reflect the need and most important to give thanks!
Travel
Bishop Jerry and Debbie are on travel to and from Atlanta.
Move
The Thomas Family is now in Okinawa for a second short tour. Please pray for this new assignment to go well for Kurt and for Mary and the kids to make new friends.
Birthday
Hope and her twin sister Faith celebrated their birthday on 30 August 2015.
Departed
Kathy, Don Patton’s sister, passed away the morning of 19 August 2015, after a long hard battle with cancer. Please help her family adjust to the temporary separation that they might let God carry their sadness, fear and worry.
Nearing the end of their time here on earth
Charles has tonsil cancer; his treatment was stopped in June 2015. The tumor was too large and prevented surgery. Charles is unable to ingest nutrition and he is in a great deal of pain Please pray for him as he prepares to go home to be with his family who have gone before him. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Phil and his family who will of necessity remain behind.
Phil was taken off life support on 2 April 2015. Please pray for him as he prepares to go home to be with his family who have gone before him. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Phil and his family who will of necessity remain behind.
Maggie is nearing the end of her time here on earth. Please pray for Maggie and her husband Dub as she prepares to go home to be with her family who have gone before her. Pray for the faith of her family to build and the transition to be good.
Alan is a victim of metastasized colon cancer already destroying his liver. His youngest sister has put aside her hard-earned career to care for her brother in these days on earth. Please pray for him as he prepares to go home to be with his family who have gone before him. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Alan and his family who will of necessity remain behind.
Saundra is in ICU with congestive heart failure after a heart operation. She is aged and frail. Saundra is near the end of her time here on earth. Please pray for comfort, understanding, strength and guidance for Saundra and her family who will of necessity remain behind. Pray for the love of God to stay foremost in their hearts.
Polly is in hospice care with dementia and spinal stenosis. Please pray for her as she prepares to go home to be with her family who have gone before her. Pray for the faith of her family to build and the transition to be good.
In need of a miracle or understanding of God’s Plan
Gemma Dillinger has been treating for breast cancer for over a year now, after surgeries, radiation and chemotherapy, she is reaching the limit of her tolerance with no end in sight. Please pray for her to gain strength and ground on the cancer. Help her to continue with her faith in our Lord, she is not afraid to go home, but wants to make sure it is time. Pray she will be encouraged to not give up until it is her time to go and that her time here on earth with her family will be good.
Dick has a metastasized Merkle Cell carcinoma just under his sternum carcinoma for which all treatment has been exhausted. His faith in the Lord is great and he is ready to be with Him. Pray he will be encouraged to not give up until it is his time to go and that his time here on earth with his family will be good.
Janet has had a blood borne cancer for several years. Her faith in the Lord is great and he is ready to be with Him. Pray she will be encouraged to not give up until it is her time to go.
Holly has had Colon Cancer, Breast Cancer and now it is in her spine. Please pray for guidance for the medical personnel treating Holly, for a miraculous remission; that Holly’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Holly and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror. Pray for strength and courage for Holly.
Tim was on a kidney transplant list and started dialysis and was taken off the transplant list for a heart problem that required stents, while putting in stents a leaking valve was found. A port was put in and something happened and it has to be redone. In several days he will have a valve replaced, after heart surgery and recover he will go back on the transplant list. Please remember him in prayer in the days and weeks ahead. Pray he will put his worry on God’s shoulders so he might be at peace and rest. Pray for those treating him that they might pay attention and do their best.
Marilyn has been diagnosed with non-operable pancreatic cancer. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Marilyn’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Marilyn and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.
June found she has a recurrence of colon cancer, which is now Stage Four, that is it has spread. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that June’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help June and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.
Cindy has been diagnosed with an aggressive malignant brain tumor. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Cindy’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Cindy and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their sadness, fear, worry and terror.
Leon McKay suffered a stroke a few weeks back that has left him unable to speak and while undergoing evaluation the doctors also found he has a very aggressive cancer. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that Leon’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Leon and his family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Rev. Thomas Brooks is not improving and being kept alive by artificial machines. Please pray for a miraculous recovery and if that not be God’s Will, a rapid passing to home. Help Thomas’ family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry
Ronnie has kidney cancer that has spread and the surgeons are very concerned. Please pray the medical team to formulate a successful treatment plan and for a miraculous remission; that Ronnie’s remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Ronnie and family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Levi was cancer free for 4 years and just discovered he has kidney cancer. Levi has a great deal of faith and said whether he is healed or God takes him home he will be fine. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Levi and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders. In particular, please pray for pain relief; Levi is 22 years old.
Ray Daley is a member of the Royal Canadian Legion and served his country during the Korean War era. Ray is taking chemotherapy treatments for cancer. Meanwhile his son Trevor is in the hospital in a coma and seems to have lost the will to live.
Pat has been under treatment for colon cancer for sometime. He has had major complications the last few days and your prayers will be appreciated by family and friends.
Dorothy had pneumonia, on checking her lungs they found tumors which permeated the lung area. Further investigation found a primary site in the colon, with the lung being secondary. It would appear there is no viable treatment at this time. Please pray for a miraculous remission; that her remaining time here on earth might be good. Help Dorothy and her family put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Becky has fourth stage metastasized lung cancer and is not doing well with chemotherapy treatments. Please pray for Becky and her husband as they are together during this difficult time in their lives.
Jane has fourth stage cancer and is not doing well. Please pray for Jane and her family as they are together during this difficult time in their lives.
Colleen has been battling pancreatic cancer over the last year and it has now spread to one of her lungs. Please keep her and her family in your prayers.
Christine has cancer of the colon, which spread to her liver; she is receiving chemotherapy and is having difficulty eating. Please pray for the medical team treating her to pay attention and do their very best; pray also for confidence in our Lord for Christine and her family.
Todd and Kenny have both been fighting osteocarcinoma for over five years and have been told their time here on earth is nearing its end, absent a miracle from God. Both are ready to go home and leave the pain, but would like to stay. Please pray for them and their families.
Homebound or Infirm
Emma Lee is in a Nursing Home and while moving her she was dropped and her femur was broken. She was operated on and her femur was repaired and she is in rehab. She is not responding well and your prayers will be appreciated.
James is on oxygen all the time, this is bothersome to him and terrifying as well. Please pray for James to put his worry, his bother and his terror on the Lord. Pray for strength and guidance for James and his family. They suggest this verse, “I am thine, save me, for I have sought thy precepts.”
Joan has had serious medical problems that have kept her confined. Please pray her health will remain stable.
Norma, Sara’s mother is in a state of deteriorating health, both physically and mentally, with both dementia and Alzheimer’s. She is slowly drifting away, though she still recognizes Sara and prayer gives her a sense of peace. Please pray for both Sara and her mother to put their cares and worries on God’s shoulders so they can deal with the many problems involved.
Surgery
Shamu had successful surgery on 7 July 2015, for a disruptive colon. The colon has been removed, she gives thank for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best. She is back in the hospital for an additional surgery to to a site infection. She is in great need of God’s Help for healing. Pray the surgical team will be open to guidance, pay close attention and do their very best. Please pray now for Shamu to trust in God, let Him carry her worry. Pray she will recover to the point her internals may be rebuilt.
Marcia has had a biospy of a mass in her breast which indicated a tumor that must be removed. Pray the surgical team will be open to guidance, pay close attention and do their very best. Pray for peace of mind and trust in God for Marcia and her family.
Edware is having his fourth back surgery (in the last four years) Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Edware and his family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Jeff has been undergoing surgery, chemo and radiation since October for pancreatitis and Pancreatic cancer. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Jeff, his wife and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Albert had a pacemaker installed recently. He will require surgery soon for a leaking heart valve and has just been told he has esophageal cancer. Pray he will turn to God and come to know Him on a more personal basis as the days go by.
Jane underwent heart valve repair surgery on 3 July 2014. Please pray for full recovery. Pray also Jane and her family to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Mario has early-diagnosed prostate cancer and had surgery. Pray for complete remission and that Mario and his family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Eddie has upcoming bladder surgery. Please pray for the surgical team to pay attention and to their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Eddie and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders.
Testing and Treatment
Timothy has brain cancer. He had surgery and is waiting for the pathology report to find out what kind of chemo he will need. Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team treating Timothy and patience and trust in God for Timothy and his family. Pray also for a full recovery for Timothy.
Mike Wysocki has a fluid buildup due to unknown reasons. He is being given diuretics which seem to reduce the fluid buildup. Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team treating Mike and patience and trust in God for Mike and his wife Wendy. Pray also for a full recovery for Mike.
Pricilla has intestinal issue causing a great deal of pain; she is not responding to medications. Pricilla had a serious operation not long ago and perhaps things in the past are causing the present complications. Pray Jesus will be close to her and his healing will replenish her body. Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Pricilla and her family. Pray also for a full recovery for her.
Barbara had a cataract operation and which found Macular Degeneration. Her other eye is dimming and shadows have come up. Pray doctors will discover the problems and healing will come and her eyesight will improve.
Melanie Zimmers had an angiogram on 10 August 2015, which turned out clear, but there are problems. Her heart’s has only a 20% ejection fraction, with no symptoms. They hope medications can get the fraction to above 45 percent or mechanical changes will have to be made. Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Melanie and her family, particularly her husband Mike. Pray also for a full recovery for her.
Helen was admitted from her doctor’s office 15 July 2015, as the result of a blood test, to the University of Pennsylvania Hospital with an extremely high white blood count. She and her husband are very active in the ministry of their church and are asking for believers to pray for them and their family, as they are facing very serious problems in the days to come. Please pray for guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Helen and her family. Pray also for a full recovery for her.
Cynthia Olufson (Melanie Zimmer’s sister) had an infection in the Harrington rods put in her back 25 years ago. It appears antibiotics are doing the job, she is still concerned about the rods needing to come out. Please pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Cynthia and her family, particularly Melanie. Pray also for a full recovery for her.
Vickie has been falling and passing out and hurt herself. Pray the medical team treating her will find out the problem and bring it to an end.
John Thornell, Colonel, USMC Retired Pilot is recovering from a heart related event which began on Tuesday 19 May 2015, when he noted some chest pain while playing golf. He skipped lunch and went home for a nap. About 0100 the next day, fully recognizable chest pain developed, four aspirin, one EMT battle (in which the losers apparently got the rights to bring John to the wrong place), one full on back from zero paddle battle, two surgeries and three stents later, John is in ICU wanting out, but because his blood pressure is so low (he is a runner, turns out it is just like it was a month ago) they don’t want to let him out. Please give thanks for all this coming together so John is still with his family here on earth. Pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for John, his wife Linda and kids Skyler and Remi. Pray also for a full recovery for him.
Steve Thornell is undergoing cancer treatment at University of California Irvine, please pray for continued guidance for the medical team and patience and trust in God for Steve and his family. Pray also for a full recovery for him.
Red Thornell has mass in his neck, which appears likely to be cancerous. He has had a biopsy on 22 May 2015 and expects the results after a PET scan on Tuesday 26 May 2015. While there is an infection, his temperature is now normal; he is not for he sleeps 19-20 hours a day. Please pray for trust in our Lord for Red and his wonderful wife Vickie as they try to get through this nightmare.
Elma has been suffering with headaches for a long time. Doctors have not been able to discover the reason for them. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Elma and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for her that they might find the best treatment method to banish the headaches completely.
Corissa has been diagnosed with a blockage. As soon as the Physicians determine the exact problems they expect Major Surgery will proceed.
Barbara Apple was more or less bedridden after a fall. She was hospitalized in great pain and had been transferred to a skilled nursing facility where they hope to be able to control the pain level. Pray for inspiration for those caring for her that they might find the appropriate treatment. Please pray for Barbara to put her trust in the Lord, look to Him for strength and for her to gain energy so she does not lose the mobility she has; pray for a full and rapid recovery. Please pray also for her husband Bob who is taking care of her that he might be comforted and strengthened in this time of stress.
Bob Apple was at the hospital picking up his wife Barbara to bring her to the skilled nursing facility when he experienced chest pain. Barbara’s release from the hospital was delayed until Bob underwent an angiogram and had his medication adjusted. Please pray for comfort and strength for Bob and his continued healing.
Deborah has had a stroke, she is doing much better and out of the hospital. She has a problem with anemia and is taking supplements for that. Pray our Lord will be close to her and her family. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Deborah and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for her that they might find the best treatment method to allow her to heal completely.
Rev. Steve Boardman has been diagnosed with stage 3 cancer. Pray that Jesus will be close and comfort his family and members of his congregation.
Hang So Ryu has cancer. Please pray for medical team contemplating and evaluating the treatment that they might be guided to the correct choice and do their very best. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for him and his family, as well as physical strength.
Olivia, age7, has been diagnosed with Stage 3 Lymphoma. The prognosis is good at this time, please pray for medical team contemplating and evaluating the treatment that they might be guided to the correct choice and do their very best. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Olivia and her family, as well as physical strength.
Paul has been hospitalized recently several times because of persistent high fevers. He is being tested and checked by physicians and seems to have a slight scoliosis, a node and Schuermann’s disease. Please pray it will be discovered how to treat these problems and healing will begin so he will be inspired to continue his education.
Carol Anne needs God’s comfort and healthy test results as she is anxiously undergoing tests related to previous hysterectomy and experiencing symptoms in the surrounding area.
Jennifer has some lumps on the right side of her neck; they have grown and multiplied. In the last few months she has been having problems swallowing. Jennifer has an appointment with specialist in several weeks to try and discover what it is. She is having a great deal of anxiety as she waits for her Doctors appointment and will appreciate your prayer for anxiety and health.
Rick has heart problems. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Rick and his wife Wanda to keep their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Clay has melanoma. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating him that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Rick and his wife Pam to keep their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry.
Atina has been diagnosed with skin cancer, which turned out to be a melanoma. A routine CT scan found a 9mm (3/8 inch) lesion in her left lung. The melanoma appears to be spreading; they need to remove the offending tissue and test the sample. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Atina’s faith is being tested, she has difficulty in praying and accepting the outcome, she wants what she wants and is perplexed about her faith in Jesus. Pray for help for Atina to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry.
Evelyn has been diagnosed with bone cancer. Pray for guidance for the medical people treating her that they might pay attention, do their very best and make the right recommendations regarding treatment. Pray for help for Evelyn to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry.
Stacy has Multiple Sclerosis and was hospitalized for what turned out to be food poisoning. Pray for trust in God for Stacy and Chris as they deal with Stacy’s illness.
Liz Strauch had a pineal cyst, which in the end responded well to a surgical draining last year. Since November 2013, similar symptoms have returned. A CT Scan turned up what is thought to be either a new cyst or an enlarged pineal gland. More testing, including an EEG is in the works. She can no longer work. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Liz and her family, in particular her husband Ken and sons Caleb and Nathan; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Liz to heal completely.
Faye is in the hospital because she is weak has been receiving blood transfusions. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Faye and her family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Faye to heal completely.
Tom has heart and kidney problems. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Tom and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment and allow Tom to heal completely.
Harold has had a severe stroke. He is now home, but his family is looking for a rehabilitation facility to help him recuperate. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Harold and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people caring for him that they might find the best treatment method to allow Harold to heal completely.
Joe has had a preliminary ALS diagnosis. Pray the final diagnosis will something that will allow him to continue taking care of his devoted young family. Pray for strength, courage and understanding for Joe and his family; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mark Wilson’s breathing seems to be under control at present, he is getting oxygen, which is a huge blessing for which he is grateful. Pray for God’s guidance for the doctors and medical people treating him that they might figure out a way to treat him that will work and not adversely affect other parts of his body, particularly his oxygenation levels, kidney and liver function. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mark, as well as for his family.
Preston is reacting poorly to recent neck surgery and now has problems with his liver count; Physicians feel that dialysis will help. There may be a blockage in the bowel and an operation might be necessary. Please pray for the medical team to pay attention and to their best to determine how to help Preston and for a good outcome. Pray also that Preston and family will be able to put their worry on God’s shoulders while Preston does his best to facilitate a return to good health.
Erica has a non-malignant Brain Tumor which cannot be surgically removed due to the size and location. They are going to attempt chemotherapy. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Erica, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Brenda is in the hospital because of bleeding on her brain. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Brenda, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mackenzie is a young girl with leukemia. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mackenzie, as well as for her family, and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find the best course of treatment.
Mack has had diabetes most of his adult life. Circulation in his legs is very bad and doctors are considering amputation. Please pray his medication will help and he will not face amputation. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Mack and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Michael has been diagnosed with lung cancer recently after making it through gastro intestinal cancer last year. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Michael and his wife Gayle; as well as for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Ken Strauch has been tired and is anemic, he had a colonoscopy which found a pair of polyps which were removed and are being tested. Just for good measure they found he has a hiatal hernia with ulcers, basically part of his stomach is pushed up into his esophagus and is bleeding from there. Sounds like there may be surgery involved. Please pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Ken and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that they might find the best course of treatment.
Adriano is in the hospital due to high sugar and high blood pressure. He is very weak and will appreciate your prayers.
Heather recently found out she has cancer. Please pray for peace of mind for her and for the medical team treating her will be guided to the right solution.
Jim has had an aneurism and blood clots. Pray that healing will come.
Georgia has liver and pancreatic cancer. The doctors are evaluating whether to do surgery and how to tackle the disease. Georgia is a faithful Christian and appreciates your prayers. Pray for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find out the source of the problem and best course of treatment. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Georgia and her family.
Lana’s doctor found something on her lymph nodes and ovaries. Pray for God’s guidance for the medical people treating her that they might find out the source of the problem and best course of treatment. Pray also for peace of mind and trust in God for Lana and her family.
Healing
Amelia Perez had a small stroke on 11 July 2015 and drove herself to the emergency room, she was admitted for three days, had her carotid artery opened up and is recovering. Amelia’s faith and spirit are strong. Please give thanks for the progress so far, for her continued and full recovery and her faith to continue to support her. Pray also for her family who are still quite worried for her.
Jon has Stage 4 mantle cell lymphoma There is good news in that he is in remission; however the chemotherapyis producing neuropathy in his legs so that it is a challenge for him to get around. Please pray that he will be as comfortable as possible; he has been a Marathoner runner so this is especially difficult.
Margaret, from California, fell and broke her on 7 July 2015, while visiting her daughter in Arizona. She will stay in Arizona for the rehabilitation and return to her home when able. Furthermore, Margaret is in good spirits; however she will be away from her church family which is important to her for an extended period of time.
Ashley broke her wrist. Pray for full and complete healing of her wrist and patience and trust in God while it heals.
Cindyis very ill, she is young and has children, she and her family need your prayers that they might stay close to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ as she heals.
Diana, age 15, broke her leg while in school and now has a cast on. Pray she will adjust and be healed soon
Bernie Coogan had a stroke near Christmas time. He is undergoing physical and speech therapy at a rehab facility where his wife works. Bernie is doing pretty well, his speech is a bit slurred, but his mind is clear. He is still Bernie. Bernie, his wife JoAnn and their family would appreciate your prayers for a full and rapid recovery as they maintain full trust in the Lord.
Amy has melanoma in her lungs, liver and kidneys; they have found a treatment for her that has a high success rate however the side effects are debilitating. Please pray she will be able to tolerate the side effects and the treatment is successful. Amy has full trust in the Lord, but would still appreciate your prayers.
Debbie is just beginning chemotherapy for cancer of the lymph nodes. Prayer she will be able to tolerate the therapy acceptably and remain strong as she remembers the Lord is with her at all times.
Liz had a massive stroke at age thirty-seven. The prognosis is good but she has a long road ahead. . Please pray for guidance for those treating her, for trust in our Lord for Liz and her family, for healing.
Ebick is suffering from a severe ulcer but the Doctors cannot give her the proper dosage of the medicine due to her six month pregnancy. Please pray doctors will find an alternative avenue for treatment or that God will provide.
Stan is going through chemotherapy and radiation treatments for cancer. He is elderly and the treatments are tiring him. Please pray for his wife Marvelene as they do this together.
Meg recently found out she had heart problems causing low blood oxygen levels, loss of focus resulting in an emergency room crisis. As a result of the symptoms she made errors on the job that caused her to lose her job. She is grateful for the excellent medical care she has received and optimistic, feeling with God’s intervention in her life her health may be reversed and a new job will become available.
Donald is in the hospital and had his leg amputated on 14 April 2014. Pray he will adjust and healing will begin.
David has many concussions and unable to go to school, read books, watch TV and has headaches and migraines. He has trouble sleeping and his family will appreciate your prayers for this 10 year old young man.
Gladys has breast cancer and has had a lumpectomy. She needs to take a year off of her work to have chemo treatments.
Alwin Jack has had a stroke and recently has had a relapse. Please pray for those who treat Alwin that they might chose the best possible treatment and pray for peace of mind for Alwin during the recovery phase.
Carolyn has Multiple Sclerosis with complications. Pray Carolyn and her children will be close to our Lord Jesus Christ as they and family members help to ease the problems.
Jeong was in an auto accident and sustained a serious back injury. Please pray for a full and rapid recovery.
Gil Garcia is back in the Long Beach VA Hospital. It is quite a trip for Mary, so please pray that he will recover fully and quickly. Pray for strength for Gil and his wife Mary as they deal with the stresses of Gil’s paraplegia and the general aging process.
Mary Garcia had surgery, she is home, but not healing as well as she hoped. Please pray for her continued healing.
Bill had malignant growth removed from a lip last month and seems to be experiencing a re-growth of the cancer. He asks your prayer for the medical team treating him and for peace of mind for himself.
Hank has osteoporosis, which has caused him a great deal of pain and inconvenience in the past few years. Pray for his healing and that his medical bills will be met.
Evelyn is an elderly woman who has had problems with her eyes and is now blind. It appears some sight will return shortly, pray for that to happen!
Joanne has begun kidney dialysis as a result of kidney failure due to extensive chemotherapy. Additionally she cares for an adopted drug addicted baby who is now nine years old. Please pray for her to keep her faith, to let the Lord carry her worry and concern and to give her strength. Pray also for those treating her that they might pay attention and do their best.
Mr. N. Anand is in the hospital and is seriously ill. He is being encouraged to pray for repentance of his sins and to depend upon our dependable God for a cure and recovery of his health. Pray that he will be a strong witness for Christ.
Jacob has been going through some dental procedures and has some pain and aggravation with the numbness. Please pray for comfort and strength for him, as well as for guidance for the medical team treating him that they might pay attention and do their best.
Bud and his wife for their continued welfare and enthusiasm. Bud has been advised of an aneurism in his heart of a size not mandating immediate surgery. This comes at a time when he has sole care of his wife who recently broke two vertebrae and thereafter sustained pneumonia.
Virginia has Sinus and Allergy problems giving her severe problems. Pray that the Doctor will discover why it continues and find a cure.
Steve Thornell had a brain aneurysm, which was found before it burst. He is home from the hospital and working hard on recovery. He lacks energy from seven days in the hospital. His doctor told him he has to make serious life changes. One of the two main arteries in the back of the head is now completely closed. He must take blood thinners, he has thick blood and recent chemotherapy made it worse. Steve has always operated at 110 percent, he needs help to slow down. Please pray for trust in the Lord and a full and rapid recovery. Pray for peace of mind for Steve and his family.
Arlen is receiving treatment for lung cancer and recently experienced a ruptured colon during treatment. She is alone in Oregon but does have a friend who has traveled a great distance to be at her side. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Arlen.
Oscar discovered some time ago he had blood clots in his leg and lung. He has been treated for them and has not been cured. He now will be facing surgery. Please keep him in your prayers.
Angela had an ischemic stroke (clot).Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Angela. Please pray also that she and her family might put their worries on our Lord’s back so she can work hard towards recovery.
Nora had a stroke mid February 2013. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Nora. Please pray also that she and her family might put their worries on our Lord’s back so she can work hard towards recovery.
Linda has been hospitalized for several days with a gastrointestinal problem. Please pray for guidance for the medical team treating her and for strength and trust for Linda.
Dester is suffering from unknown skin and diseases. Please guide the medical team treating him to find out what the problem is and cure it. Pray also for Dester to trust in the Lord.
Lee has Arterial Fibrillation, sheis doing much better and she and her family thank you for your prayers. Her pain level is high and some medications have bad side effects. Please continue her in Prayer in the weeks ahead as she heals.
Nell recently adopted two children and has just been diagnosed with multiple myeloma.
Mary Lou has been suffering with seizures. She was in the hospital with a 24 hour monitor and is being sent home from the hospital with two medications and orders to return in 2 months for another MRI to review whatever is going on in her brain. Please pray for guidance for the medical people treating her, as well as peace of mind and trust in God for her and her family.
Kathleen has spent the last two weeks in the hospital. She has been diagnosed with colitis, shingles and possibly colon cancer. Pray she will be comfortable and begin to heal.
Rachel has Mitochondrial Myopathy. This is a hereditary disease of the muscles and they do not have a cure for it. Part of her pain is her family does not believe she is indeed ill, as she appears to be just fine. Please pray her family will learn the truth and be supportive of her; pray also the medical people treating her will find the right measures to minimize the disease. Most particularly pray for Rachel’s trust in God.
Nicolas is in the hospital with serious symptoms of a heart disorder. Please pray for peace of mind for him and guidance for the medical team looking for the cause and cure.
Juanita is a young girl who was in a coma because of a blood disease. She has not come out and is gaining strength. They are awaiting results from blood samples. Her family thanks you for your prayers and asks that you continue.
George had foot surgery. Please give thanks for the surgery and pray for a full and rapid recovery.
Nellie is in the emergency room of a hospital in a great deal of pain. Please pray for peace of mind for her and guidance for the medical team looking for the cause and cure.
Lauralee Meade underwent a lumpectomy on Friday after Thanksgiving. A further anomaly has been discovered and she had additional preventative radiation treatment. Please pray for a complete remission of the cancer. Pray also Lauralee will maintain her great attitude and trust in God.
Bill, Sara’s husband, had a third abdominal surgery on 22 November 2011, to remove a tumor. Bill is doing better keeping the doctor’s instructions, for which we are all grateful, including taking chemotherapy once a day for one more year. He has decreased the consumption of alcohol and eating at least mostly properly. Please pray for help for him to continue do all this. Please pray also that Bill might turn his heart outward to help those around him, as well as live a long and healthy life to the honor and glory of God. Pray also for peace of mind for Bill and his wife Sara.
Kay Denton (Mrs. Kay) has had another chest infection, perhaps viral, this one is pretty bad. Please pray for her full and rapid recovery and for her ability to breathe to return quickly. Please pray for continued peace of mind for Mrs. Kay and her family. Give thanks for her trust in the Lord and her positive attitude.
Matt Alcantara, age 16, came back with ZERO SCANS again in August 2014! Matt has Osteosarcoma (bone cancer), a very rare and often lethal form of cancer with limited treatment options. This is a disease that is about 90 percent fatal in a couple of years. He has no hip joint on one side, but he walks and swims! Courage? Guts? You bet! Please also give thanks for the great faith of Matt and his entire family. Their faith and trust is a wonderful example for each and every one of us. But, now is not the time to stop praying. Actually, it never is the time to stop praying!
Judith Clingwall is afflicted with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). She is currently in Laurel Place, an extended care facility in Surrey, British Columbia. Judith’s condition has worsened recently. Please pray for her to take an active part in her own life, for her strength, peace of mind, trust in God and remission of the disease so she might return home to her family. Pray also for strength for her husband Martin as he deals with all the problems and stress of Judith’s situation.
Vince (age 15), reoccurrence of Osteosarcoma, recent testing found a nickel sized tumor in his lungs. The doctors are consulting with a specialist in Houston. Please pray for guidance for the medical team and for peace of mind for Vince and his family.
Healing and Patience
Diane spent a month in the hospital because of an inability to breath., due to Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) apparently from chronic bronchitis. She is home, still very weak and learning to live with this progressive disease. Pray she will let the Lord help her be calm in her new circumstances and that healing will come.
Kym (43) has various hip problems which seems to be related to osteoarthritis. And, her mother Ruth is in the early stages of dementia. Pray for guidance for those treating both of them, as well as patience and trust in the Lord for both of them.
Christopher has had problems with his leg for some time. Now he has to have it casted and it will stay that way for what to him seems an interminable time. Pray for patience and peace of mind for this young man who has much he wants to do.
James for the Lord’s healing of health issues and give a remedy for many personal challenges at the moment
Thanksgiving and Continued Healing
Dave had surgery earlier this week for a perforated ulcer which was successfully removed, he is recovering well all considered. Please join his family in giving thanks for the great result and pray for his for full recovery.
Mary had a cataract operation early the morning of Tuesday 16 June 2015, which went well. Please give thanks for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best; give thanks for the great result and pray for continued healing.
Sandy Patton had an ovarian cyst removed on 9 June 2015. Surgery went well, on pathological testing there was no sign of cancer. After a day, she went home and is resting and recovering! Please give thanks for the great result and for the surgical team being open to guidance, paying close attention and doing their very best. Pray for continued recovery and peace of mind and trust in God for Sandy and her family.
Herb McCormick (1st Sergeant, USA Retired and dear friend of Bishop Jerry) had throat cancer surgery on 12 May 2015 at Emory Hospital, Atlanta. At 86, it was major surgery with little hope of survival. Herb survived the surgery, which went very very well and is now gaining strength rapidly, having gained 15 needed pounds since the surgery. Please give thanks for good outcome and pray for a full recovery.
Peggy had very successful surgery for a torn Rotator Cuff on 30 April 2015. Please give thanks for the medical team paying attention and doing their best and for a good outcome. Pray also that Peggy and her family will be able to let God help them as she recovers. Peggy and her family thank you for your prayers.
Carolyn, (Charlie McCormack’s mom) was hospitalized with a blood clot in her arm, she is back home and doing well. Please pray the clot will continue to abate without damage to her system. Give her trust in the Lord and peace of mind for her and Charlie, too.
Daisy Lee is recovering from necrotizing fasciitis, which manifested on 30 January 2015, causing the loss of her right arm and her left hand, as well as parts of both feet. This is very very hard, but Daisy has kept her faith. As she becomes more well, less in people’s thoughts and prayers it will be a lot tougher for her. Please pray for strength for her and her family and friends as time moves on. Her family is thankful for all the support they have received during these past couple weeks and hopes all will continue to pray for Daisy’s speedy recovery.
Pray for peace of mind and trust in God for Daisy’s family, her husband and children Tiffany and Chris.
Michael Lenahan known to all as Bullet was hospitalized on 18 March 2015, and had a stent placed in a cardio artery. All went well and he is recovering nicely. Please give thanks for the great result and pray for a complete and rapid recovery for Bullet.
Janet Jessup had a stroke on 3 July 2014 and heart problems that were causing huge issues for her. They seem to have gotten her stabilized and she is going home from the hospital. Please join the entire family in giving thanks for this wonderful development. Please pray for those treating her to find the appropriate treatment and for trust in God and peace of mind for Janet and her family, in particular her husband of 43 years, Rev Roger Jessup, retired minister of Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church.
Arch Crittenden has Multiple Myeloma (cancer cells in bone marrow); without this treatment life expectancy is one to two years. The treatment has apparently been effective. Arch and his lovely wife Kathy ask that you pray for their trust in God to remain strong and for a good outcome.
Sam had surgery on his entire large intestine that had become infected. At the time of the operation he was just hours away from a complete organ shutdown. He had had turmoil in his life over the years. Sam is now in the ICU and his Minister visited him and explained to him God had given him another chance for him to make things right with his Lord. Pray for his good health and his spiritual life with Jesus.
Marv Rogge had successful heart valve replacement surgery on or about 20 December 2014. Other than a desire to chew his food way too much, Marv is doing great, up and about. Please join Marv, his lovely wife Marian and the rest of the family in giving thanks to God for the great result. Pray for a full and complete recovery.
Ian had surgery to remove excess skin rendered a nuisance by controlled lost of 200 pounds. Please give thanks for the successful result and for those treating him to have paid attention and done their very best on the lengthy surgery, taking the best possible care of him. Please pray for his continued recovery and strength for his Mother who will be in charge of his after care.
Jenniffer had surgery for breast cancer on 15 October 2014, which seemingly went well; please give thanks for that. She has had other complications which preclude her from making a full recovery in particular, the reconstructive surgery seems to have gravely affected her back muscles and nerves, resulting in both very limited mobility and extreme pain, the drugs are making her terribly sick; please pray those will be overcome. Pray for help for Jenniffer to keep her trust in the Lord and let Him carry her worry and concern as she recovers. Please pray also for strength and courage for her family as they try their best to help her.
Mary Thornell has been battling colon cancer for three years now, she is currently treating at the City of Hope. Things seem to be going well, the numbers seem headed in the right direction. Please pray for guidance for those treating her, as well as strength, guidance and peace of mind for Mary and her husband Jim, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, as she undergoes treatment.
Jim Thornell (Jet) seems to have recovered from the five stomach ulcers and now is dealing with blocked coronary arteries and taking care of Mary. Please give thanks for the great result and also for the strength, guidance and peace of mind our Lord gave Jet and his wife Mary, as well as daughter Janice and son Jimmy, as he underwent treatment.
Elma is suffering from cancer. She was taken home from the hospital on the advice of her Doctor. We were asked to pray that Elma’s remaining time here on earth might be good and that Elma and family might put their trust in the Lord and let Him carry their worry. Since then, Elma’s Bishop told us a great Miracle of the Lord is working over Elma. Doctors sent her home to die, but now she seems to be doing all right. On behalf of her, thank you for all of your prayers. Please continue praying for her complete healing.
Dennis has heart problems; now the medical people treating him discovered a large mass on his liver which turned out to be a cyst! Please give thanks for this great development and pray for peace of mind and trust in the Lord for Dennis and for God’s guidance for the medical people treating him that the contemplated surgery might go well.
Dwight had major oral surgery, for which he gives thanks. He is recovering slowly and asks your prayers to speed the process.
Mike is a veteran who has served his country when she called. Please pray he will open his heart to God so He can make Mike’s crooked road straight and pull him towards the summit rather than to the pit.
Dick’s left arm was amputated after treating for Merkel Cell carcinoma over a year ago. He has met with the oncologist’s and reviewed the CAT scan. Good News! The tumor has been reduced in size—it was down to one half the size that it was in September and there was no indication of a new tumor in the chest area. Dick wanted the Prayer Partners to know and join him in thankfulness to our Lord. Please join Dick and his family in giving thanks to Our Lord Jesus Christ for his recovery as well as for their trust in God.
Carol Stone, the sweet wife of Mike Stone, recovered far better than expected from a severe brain bleed, but fell recently and broke her hip. She still requires 24 hour care, which Mike provides with little help.
Business
Mark’s business is in difficulty. He works in a shrinking field, of which he is one of the country’s true masters, but there is little work available. He asks that you pray that he can find a way to survive in his industry, which he loves and needs his talents. Pray he can find new sources of business and new ways of doing things, perhaps someone to partner with to better use his talents. Pray also for those who work for and with him that they might do their best to help.
Financial Guidance and Employment
Anne is unemployed and just interviewed for a position. Please pray she will be employed, if not at this position then that this interview will lead to better prospects. Pray for her ot be encouraged and strengthened by the Holy Ghost.
Doug recently became unemployed from his job of 18 years. He has been applying for jobs, but unable to get one at this time. His wife is working; this is not enough for the family. Please pray he will find employment with a firm that will be able to use his considerable skill and hard work to benefit both the firm and the family.
Catherine and Lewis are at a low ebb due to a struggle for employment. Your fervent prayers will be appreciated.
Lori is considering a potential change in her employment. Please pray for God’s guidance in considering all aspect of her potential work.
Sara is concerned about the future with her company. She would appreciate prayers for her continued employment and that her firm might find more and better ways to use her considerable skills.
Financial Guidance and Healing
Clark is in need of salvation; for God’s Will to be done in his life. Pray his family will be blessed with the financial miracles that come from doing His Will.
Timothy and Sharon had their home foreclosed the morning of 15 April 2014. They are experiencing spiritual, emotional and financial crisis at the current time. Please pray for God’s guidance as to how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves and more importantly have them draw closer to God and each other.
Linda, Rick, Christian and Sawyer are a family experiencing spiritual, emotional and financial crisis at the current time. Please pray for God’s guidance as to how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves and more importantly have them draw closer to God and each other.
David and Lorna are having financial problems. They are trying to find a smaller home which may be more affordable. Lorna has had an ongoing battle with brain cancer, her trips back and forth to the hospital have drained their finances to the point they sometimes struggle to have enough food in the house. Pleaser pray for Lorna’s healing and guidance on how they might handle the financial difficulties in which they have found themselves.
God’s Strength and Peace of Soul
Geordie can use your prayers following the loss of his lovely wife Sarah. Ask for help for him to turn outward from his inner feelings and act on the commission given him; help the pain of temporary separation to dim.
Tommy Dunning is facing his first Christmas following the death of his only son to cancer. Please pray he can concentrate his heart on what he had and will have in his son through God.
Guidance
Paul recently had his large toe amputated due to diabetes and is having a difficult recovery filled with fear about dying. He recently accepted Jesus as his savior and his family Rosie and Brenda are very grateful. Pray for strength for both Rosie and Brenda who are staying by his side through it all encouraging him on.
Steve is addicted to alcohol, pain pills and gambling. Pray for wisdom, courage and strength to stick with treatment and follow God’s plan for his life
Eli has some mental issues and has lost his way. He was admitted to the hospital for psychological evaluation to get a proper diagnosis and medications and has been discharged. He has yet to come to grips with the demons chasing him. Pray he will return to the Lord and his family. Eli’s brother Carl has gotten little to no support from the family, he being the one to get Eli into treatment. Daughter Katie seems to be the least helpful. Pray they will ask God to send the Holy Ghost in to straighten things out and they will listen when He speaks to them. The family has been open to the Prince of Darkness and needs help.
Debbie has family problems that must be dealt with and she asks God’s guidance in making the correct decisions and how to stand.
Edward (45) had the opportunity to meet with a Christian during the conversation she discovered Edward had some background about God but thought He was not relevant to this day. Edward asked many questions about the Bible and was surprised at the answers and continued to ask questions. They both went their separate ways and the Christian told Edward that she would pray for him. Will you join in prayer for Edward, please?
Michael and his Family ask your prayers for wisdom as they are under trial and affliction to follow the law of the land and yet honor God in so doing.
Flora is in remission with cancer, but has high blood pressure and fatigue. Flora’s Mother recently died and this has caused added stress. Please pray that she will be able to let God carry her worry and sorrow so she can do the things she needs to do.
Elizabeth and Gunner need your prayers for their general well being. Pray that they might see the Light of the Lord and let Him guide their lives. Pray they might open their hearts not only to the Lord, but to each other to become one in Him and happiness.
Eli has lost his way both spiritually and mentally, please pray for him and his parents Ed and Barb, who are having great struggles seeing their son, go through these afflictions having brought up in a Christian home. Please pray his parents can find a way to help Eli.
Mitten has a Christian talking to him about Christ. Mitten does not believe and does not seem to care. Please pray Mitten will see the light.
Kristen, Rickey and their two children ask you to pray for grace, wisdom and understanding as they attempt to cope with infidelity, separation and possibly divorce as a result of backsliding from the Lord into the World.
Aaron has a problem seeing is where his life should be leading him. Please pray that he can listen to his father Paul and those around him who want him to work hard and obtain a real education now rather than just coast towards oblivion.
Helene and her family ask your prayers for them as they deal with the loss of Alan, husband and father.
Stephanie seems to be very deeply into post partum depression after her baby was born prematurely. Please pray for her Mother in Law who is going a great distance to help Stephanie and her new Grandson. Pray that Stephanie will be able to direct her attention outward, rather than inward.
William is an elderly man living with his Son and Daughter in-law. William is causing trouble in the family because of his demanding ways and continually using bad language. The family is at wit’s end to know how to handle him and will appreciate your guidance and prayers.
Caitlin is in the grip of the Prince of Darkness; she thinks there is escape from reality in drugs. The saddest part is that reality is not as she sees it. Her family is despairing as they can do nothing to help her and ask that you pray for the Holy Ghost to enter into heart and show her the need for change before it is too late.
Nathaniel is in spiritual turmoil. His family and friends will appreciate it if you will keep him in your prayers for him to find the root of his trouble and accept God’s help to heal his heart.
Sam and her two children that have been living in a shelter and are to lose their place there. Please pray a place will be found they can stay in and recover.
Please pray Darlene will surrender her life to Christ.
Norrie is facing daily exams in the weeks ahead. Pray for calmness and concentration and to do the best possible.
Jonathan is addicted to drugs. He is now in jail awaiting trial. His parents and friends will appreciate it if you will keep him in your prayers for him to find the root of his trouble and accept God’s help to heal addiction.
Beth is suffering from ungodly treatment in her marriage. Please pray God will guide her in her behavior, actions and thoughts that she might be able to lead her husband to God so her marriage might prosper to the benefit of them.
Jeanette has had many members of her family die from diabetes and several are near death now. Jeanette does not know the Lord and is despondent and perplexed about her family and herself. Please pray she can open her heart to allow the Holy Ghost in to bring her knowledge and understanding.
Dr. Elizabeth Raj is teaching a biblical approach to the psychological problems facing many in our society today. She is battling against the growing influence of worldly psychology adopted by the churches themselves. Elizabeth constantly stresses answers are found between the covers of that precious Book, the Holy Bible. Please pray for encouragement, strength, fortitude and courage for her.
Abigail is a teenager who has behavior problems. She feels she is in an area of mental darkness. Please pray that she might look to God for help and not within herself.
Sara asks that you pray for guidance for her as she deals with the stresses of her family and life. Pray that she can separate those things which she can affect from those things which she cannot and give her grace to accept that she cannot do everything and can only change those things within her control. She asks for God’s help for her business so that she might remain gainfully employed while keeping up with the needs of her mother and husband and healing her own problems.
Jacquie to open her heart to God and accept His Love and Grace.
Hap asks you to pray he might be able to trust God will help him make the right decisions at the right time and not to worry uselessly, to change those things he can change, accept those things he cannot change, sleep well to be able to do the correct things with a clear head and that he will open his heart to the Holy Ghost so that His Light can penetrate into the far corners of his heart and eradicate the darkness lingering there.
School Challenges
Destiny, Blake and Janet
Anglican Orthodox Church
Kenya
The Anglican Orthodox Church is making plans for establishment of a presence in Kissi, Kenya. There are six parishes, a total of 161 members, 68 adults, 93 children with two ministers:
- · Raphael Ondara
- · Johnson Otara
- ·
Please pray for the church there and guidance for the people involved.
India
Nepal has experienced a 8.3 earth quake and it has reached India where we have members of The Anglican Orthodox Church. Please pray now and continue your prayers as they experience the many problems
Indonesia
Please pray for the Lord’s will regarding the establishment of an AOC church in Indonesia.
Pakistan
We are reminded that one of the founding principles of the Anglican Church is its national churches. While not a theological principle, it is nonetheless one of the critical elements of our way; we join Bishop Jacob in celebrating the independence of Pakistan:
Dear Bishop Ogles & AOC family,
Yesterday a suicide bomb exploded 50 meeters away from our Church, St.Paul Anglican Orthodox Church in Jamrud, Khyber Agency(tribal area) about 10 miles from main city Peshawar.The suicide bomber attacked one of the Agency’s officer’s car outside the Tehsil main gate when he was leaving, killing 6 people and injuring 56.Thanks to Almighty God that no one from our Church members hurt.Two members of our church work inside the Tehsil, they were already inside, when this incident happened. This one is the 4th bomb explosion in Jamrud in recent years.Please do remember our dear church members who live in Jamrud.
In Christ’s alone,
+Ernest Jacob
Bishop of AOC Pakistan
The forces of evil are strong in Pakistan. The force of God stronger. Pray for our Christian family there.
Serbia
Rev. Igor Djurcik leader of Anglican Orthodox Church in Serbia asks us to pray for his students. He has excellent young people in Belgrade who are having services and classes on the Bible.
Philippines
Please pray a Minister will be found who would like to serve in Tabuk, in the Philippine Islands. The Anglican Orthodox Church has an established Church there and in the surrounding areas and need a Shepherd to lead the flock.
Diocese of the Epiphany
Saint Paul’s, Moberly, Missouri would like your prayers that the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so that they might be more effective in spreading the Word of God.
Atlanta
Bishop Jerry was in Atlanta, preaching at a church who has in attendance many members of another church founded in 1887 that has closed. Many of those are older, in their late 70s and early 80s. Please pray they will see this is a parish where they can be one with other believers. Please pray the Holy Ghost might enter more fully into their hearts so that they might see their way to come together.
Diocese of Virginia
Saint Joseph of Arimathea Anglican Orthodox Church is under a lot of stress. We all are, but they need even more prayer. Rev Roger Jessup, their wonderful minister, had to retire as he was so pressed by the duties of a primary care giver, in addition to all the worries of this world. Pray for trust in God for each member of the parish and for them to find economic relief.
Armed Forces & Contractors
Dustin (Middle East)., Kristyna Thomas (Army – Camp Walker – Taegu / Daegu, ROK), Airman Donny Patton (USAF – Hulbert Field, Florida), Jordan Brown (USMC – Fleet Marine Force – Pacific), Trevor Jennings (USAF – KC-10 Boom Operator – New Jersey), Trevor Di Marco (USN – Whidbey Island, EF-18 Pilot), Kurt Thomas (USN – Camp Foster, Okinawa), Ethan (US Army Airborne – Southwest Asia)
For Our Country
Our country has lost its way. Over half the people that vote, voted for a government that promises them things it cannot deliver in return for their souls which it can, will and does take. Our foreign policy backs the rise of Islam, we turn our backs on those who would follow God and arm those who murder them. Pray God will raise up a leader from among the people who can turn the country’s course 180° and attempt to come back to God. Pray the people will recognize that they are headed down a smooth wide road into the pit, a road that will get smoother and smoother, steeper and steeper until the only possible way is down. Down, into the depths of the pit. Pray people will recognize there is:
- · One True and Triune God who is goodness in and of Himself
- · All religions are not equal
- · All ways of life are not equal;
- · The Bible holds the Key to Life;
- · All rights come from God, not the State;
- · Good;
- · Bad;
- · Evil;
- · Right;
- · Wrong;
- · Allah is the Devil;
- · Abortion is no more than sacrifice of children to Baal.
Pray this recognition will not come too late. Pray we will, each of us, do our duty to God, Country and Family, putting His Honor above all.
Persecuted
The Islamist group (ISIS) took over Quaragosh, the biggest Christian city in Iraq; 164 men, women and children were beheaded. People ask where is God? The real question is where are the people to enforce God’s will. Pray the people of the world will see Allah for who he is, the Devil. Pray for those who remain behind that they might find a way to safety.
Around the world, Christians are under attack, not only in the Muslim world, but from Hindus and others in India. Also, they are under continual attack in the name of “Separation of Church and State” in the western world, as it becomes actively atheist or pro-devil buddy. Please pray for God’s guidance and protection for all persecuted Christians and those around them.
Education
Thomas Dabney is attending Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, to finish his Bachelor’s Degree. Please pray for Thomas to focus on education and do his very best at school.
Various Special Requests
Nicholas will enter the Georgia Police Academy on Monday 29 June 2015, to begin his training and certification process as a Police Officer. Pray for strength, courage and persistence for him.
This is a horrible time for the people of India, Christians in particular; they are having problems with Hunger, Bank Closings, Transportation and Schools not functioning. Pray for the Leaders and Members of our Church in Eluru Andhra Pradesh. Pray their basic needs will be met and God will be close to them in this time of need.
We ask that you pray, please ask God that the Holy Ghost might give you insight into how you might make the lives of your friends and family better. Remember helping others is not just those who you don’t know!
Thanksgiving
Aleyda had surgery on 7 August 2015 for difficult and painful kidney stones. All went well and she is home. Please join her in thanking God for the great result.
The near future, as well as Next Sunday
13 September 2015 – Fifteenth Sunday after Trinity – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
20 September 2015 – Sixteenth Sunday after Trinity – Morning Prayer – Service start time 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
27 September 2015 – Seventeenth Sunday after Trinity – Morning Prayer – The parish will be on travel from the 91st Tactical Fighter Squadron Reunion, so the service will likely be there.
4 October 2015 – Eighteenth Sunday after Trinity – Morning Prayer – Service start tme 1000 (10:00 am); welcome or gathering songs before the service at 0945 (9:45 am); Time 1000 (10:00 am); Location – 10603 Burrell Way, Descanso, CA
[1] Samaritan – Of or pertaining to Samaria, in Palestine. — n. A native or inhabitant of Samaria; also, the language of Samaria. [1913 Webster]
Samaritans were descendants of those who had stayed behind during the Captivity and had been separated for many years from the body of Judaism. They had not developed, nor did they subscribe to them, all the rules the Jews managed to invent during their separation. The main body of Jews viewed them as lesser peoples, not really Jews.
[2] Samaritan – Of or pertaining to Samaria, in Palestine. — n. A native or inhabitant of Samaria; also, the language of Samaria. [1913 Webster]
Samaritans were descendants of those who had stayed behind during the Captivity and had been separated for many years from the body of Judaism. They had not developed, nor did they subscribe to them, all the rules the Jews managed to invent during their separation. The main body of Jews viewed them as lesser peoples, not really Jews.